Massachusetts



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About Massachussetts


The colony was named after a local Indian tribe whose name means "a large hill place." Massachusetts was one of the six New England states, and one of the first 13 states in the Union (it entered in 1788). The Pilgrims established their settlement at Plymouth in 1620, arriving on the "Mayflower". They were Puritans, who established the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The birthplace of many of the ideals of the American Revolution, Massachusetts attracted people who believed in self-government. Massachusetts is the sixth smallest state of the United States but it stands among the leaders in many fields. Universities in and around Boston help make the area one of the world's great cultural, educational, medical and research centers. Historic sites date back to the Pilgrims, to colonial witchcraft trials, and to the Revolutionary War. Skiing brings many visitors to the Berkshire Hills and to other parts of the state. The Atlantic Ocean and many lakes and rivers also attract water sports enthusiasts.

Source: http://usa.usembassy.de/travel-states.htm

Symbols of Massachusetts



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State Flag


On a white field is a blue shield emblazoned with the image of a Native American, Massachuset. He holds a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. The arrow is pointing downward representing peace. The white star represents Massachusetts as one of the original thirteen states. Around the shield is a blue ribbon with the motto: " By the Sword We Seek Peace, but Peace Only Under Liberty". Above the shield is a arm and sword, representing the first part of the motto.

Source: http://usa.usembassy.de/massachusetts.htm


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State Seal

State Facts




Capital City:
Boston

Nickname:
Bay State / Old Colony State
Motto:
Ense Petit Placidam Sub Libertate quietem (By the Sword We Seek Peace, But Peace Only Under Liberty)
Statehood:
May 16, 1788 (6th)
Land Area:
7,838 sq. mi.; 45th largest
State Bird:
Black-capped Chickadee (Penthestes atricapillus)
State Flower:
Mayflower (epigaea regens)
State Tree:
American Elm (ulmus americana)

Population and Cities



Population: 6,497,967
Largest city: Boston
Second Largest City: Worcester
Persons Per square Mile: 810


Source: http://www.census.gov/schools/facts/massachusetts.html

Created by hh1